Library Assistants, Clerical

SOC code 43-4121 · O*NET-SOC 43-4121.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Office and administration

Library Assistants, Clerical pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$36,910

a year

Hourly

$17.74

per hour

10th$27,730Median$36,91090th$55,310

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$39,370

$18.93 per hour

Middle 50%

$31,820 – $45,620

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$27,730 – $55,310

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

85,520

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $27,730; $13.33/hr
25th percentile: $31,820; $15.30/hr
Median percentile: $36,910; $17.74/hr
75th percentile: $45,620; $21.93/hr
90th percentile: $55,310; $26.59/hr

What do library assistants, clerical do?

Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
Classify and catalog items according to content and purpose.
Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.

How to qualify for this work

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 50% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)50%
Some College Courses14%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree12%
Post-Secondary Certificate11%

Common questions

How much does a library assistants, clerical earn?

The national median is $36,910 a year. The full range runs from $27,730 at the 10th percentile to $55,310 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a library assistants, clerical without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.3/5
Active Listening3.3/5
Writing3.0/5
Speaking3.0/5
Critical Thinking3.0/5
Monitoring2.9/5

Knowledge areas

Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
Administrative3.7/5
English Language3.6/5
Education and Training3.0/5
Psychology3.0/5
Computers and Electronics3.0/5
Public Safety and Security2.9/5

Transferable strengths: Service Orientation, Coordination, Social Perceptiveness, Complex Problem Solving.